From an early age, the life of Pennsylvania State Police Patrol Trooper Alex Douglass was shaped by travel, family, and a deep love for sports. Growing up, he immersed himself in football, track and field, and weightlifting—activities that instilled discipline and resilience. He met his wife, Jaclyn, at the local YMCA, where he regularly worked out and she cared for children in the daycare. That chance meeting blossomed into a lifelong partnership rooted in strength and compassion.
Douglass became a Pennsylvania State Trooper in May of 2005, seeking a more regimented lifestyle for himself and wanting to help safeguard the citizens of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. He served proudly for 20 years, committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and service. Douglass loved protecting and serving the community.
On September 12, 2014, Douglass’s life changed forever. During an ambush targeting Troopers arriving and departing from their station, he attempted to pull a wounded colleague to safety. At that moment, Douglass was shot through the left side of his back with a .308 round. The bullet traveled through his pelvic area and exited near his right hip and femur, leaving Douglass with devastating injuries: a total right hip replacement, an artificial femur, removal of two feet of intestines, and permanent damage to his sciatic nerve. Ultimately, his right leg was amputated below the knee. Douglass earned a Purple Heart for his heroic actions.
Despite these challenges, Douglass has never let adversity define him. He’s channeled his experience into motivational speaking, sharing his journey in order to inspire others to persevere. Staying fit remains a passion, and he continues to push himself physically and mentally.
Douglass is grateful to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation for lifting heavy burdens from his life. On days when he relies on a wheelchair, the smart home’s adaptations empower him to move freely and live with dignity. The removal of Douglass’s monthly mortgage has eased financial stress, allowing his family to focus on healing and growth.
The message from Pennsylvania State Police Patrol Trooper Alex Douglass to others is simple: No matter what injury or hardship you face, never let it define you. Focus on the good. For him, organizations like T2T, and the people behind them, are proof that hope and humanity can help us rise above life’s darkest moments and enable us to move forward.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided Pennsylvania State Police Patrol Trooper Alex Douglass with a mortgage-free smart home through the Smart Home Program.